§ 40. Mr. JACOBSENasked whether the officers who have hitherto acted as military representatives at Appeal Tribunals are still not notified as to whether they are to be retained by the Ministry of National Service; and, if they are to be retained, will they be in charge of a department for tribunal work or merely represent the Ministry at Appeal Tribunals?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of NATIONAL SERVICE (Mr. Cecil Beck)A general Instruction was issued on 15th November containing the following paragraph:
The appointments of Military Representatives (who now become National Service Representatives) will remain in force as though they had been made by the Minister of National Service, unless or until they are in any case revoked or varied by the Minister of National Service.These officials are at the present moment performing the duties of their offices. Returns and recommendations are being made by the Directors of National Service in the regions with a view to the definite settlement of the regional establishments. The matter of the organisation of tribunal work in the regions has not been finally determined. It is probable that no uniform system can be made to suit the requirements of all regions, which differ widely in character. It may, however, be stated that in general the work of the Appeal National Service Representatives will not be confined to representing the Ministry at Appeal Tribunals.
§ Mr. WATTCan the hon. Gentleman say whether that transference to the National Service Department includes those military representatives who are of military age and military fitness and who have never yet been out of the country?
§ Mr. BECKYes; it includes all military representatives, but the whole question is being considered.
§ Mr. PRINGLEWill any steps be taken to have their protection certificates withdrawn?
§ Mr. ROWLANDSWill that include men who have been simply engaged as recruiting officers in khaki?